Relief as Muslim foundation helps fire victims

Pupils whose homes were burnt during the SST blaze gathered at the hall.

Help and much needed assistance has continued pouring in for the victims of the fire that ravaged SST informal settlement in Khayelitsha, with Muslim Hands SA donating 1000 litres of water, 180 blankets and electric stoves with a total value of about R60 000, last Tuesday. The organisation said it first assessed the situation to ascertain what was needed as they did not want to duplicate the same help that had been offered before. Organisation spokesperson, MJ Li, said the organisation wanted to demonstrate the spirit of ubuntu and love and that people should never allow race and religion to get in the way of doing good for others.

“We want to make a change in the lives of others. We are here to assure (them) that they are not alone. Life is about being there for each other,” he said.

“We hope that this donation assists in helping to rebuild their lives. I urge the community at large to show their support and be part of the healing process”

Ward 93 branch chairperson, Malanga Mkhatshelwa, said he was filled with joy and excitement and while the donation might seem like a drop in the ocean, it goes a long way to helping rebuild the lives of the fire victims.

He said another concern was that these residents had no electricity and that needed to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

Nokwanda Mngutyana said she was glad that help continued to stream in but emphasised that they wanted to be moved into formal houses as they had been promised by provincial and national government.

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Pupils whose homes were burnt during the SST blaze gathered at the hall.

Community leaders and Muslim Hands SA members were all in joyful mood as the organisation donated stoves and blankets.